National Football League

J.J. Watt, now cleared for football, says he 'elongated' his career by missing 13 games

Published Feb. 1, 2017 9:58 a.m. ET

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Cameron DaSilva

Texans defensive end J.J. Watt underwent multiple back surgeries last year. It forced him to play just three games, which was somewhat of a miracle in itself after he rushed back to return for Week 1.

Now, after just about a full season to recover from his herniated disc, Watt is ready to go. The three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year spoke to the media Wednesday in Houston and gave a very positive update on his condition. He’s been cleared for football activities, which is a huge step in his recovery.

https://twitter.com/HoustonTexans/status/826792315272454145

Watt, 27, also said he believes he elongated his career by missing just about all of 2016. That’s certainly a positive development for the future of the Texans, if it’s indeed true.

https://twitter.com/AaronWilson_NFL/status/826792827879317504

He admits he probably didn’t take it as slow as he should have after the initial surgery, attempting to get ready for the season opener.

https://twitter.com/HoustonTexans/status/826789473438547969

https://twitter.com/HoustonTexans/status/826790067209379840

Opposing quarterbacks should be weary of Watt next season because he hasn’t hit anyone in quite some time, and he’s ready to unleash that built up fire.

https://twitter.com/AaronWilson_NFL/status/826793547089186817

The Texans will seemingly enter 2017 with Watt, Jadeveon Clowney and Whitney Mercilus up front, which is arguably the best pass-rushing unit in the NFL. If Houston can find better quarterback play, the Texans will be dangerous.

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